Placental Morphology In Hypertensive Disorders Of Pregnancy And Its Correlation With Fetal Outcome: An Original Research

Abstract

Background: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, including conditions like preeclampsia, pose significant risks to maternal and perinatal health. Despite extensive research, the precise etiology of these disorders remains elusive.
Objective: This observational study aimed to investigate the correlation between placental morphology in hypertensive pregnancies and neonatal outcomes.
Methods: A total of 200 women, comprising 100 hypertensive cases and 100 normotensive controls, were enrolled. Placentae were meticulously examined for various parameters, including weight, diameter, thickness, and the presence of infarctions, calcifications, and retroplacental hematomas. Additionally, newborns were evaluated for birth weight, Apgar scores, and NICU admission.
Results: Statistical analyses revealed significant differences in birth weight between hypertensive and normotensive pregnancies, with hypertensive cases showing lower birth weights. Placental weight was also reduced in hypertensive pregnancies, albeit not significantly. Fetoplacental ratio was significantly decreased in hypertensive cases, indicating impaired placental function. Furthermore, hypertensive pregnancies exhibited a higher incidence of placental infarctions and retroplacental hematomas, which correlated with adverse neonatal outcomes such as low Apgar scores and increased NICU admissions. While calcification incidence was higher in hypertensive pregnancies, its impact on fetal outcomes was not significant.
Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of placental health in hypertensive pregnancies and highlight the need for further research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and improve maternal and fetal health outcomes in this population.